Max Porter's Lanny is a genre-defying novel set in rural England, blending magical realism with contemporary issues. The story revolves around the enigmatic young Lanny, his relationship with a local artist, and his sudden disappearance. At the heart of the narrative is Dead Papa Toothwort, a shapeshifting entity embodying village folklore and collective memory.

Porter's innovative storytelling techniques, including creative typography representing Toothwort's omnipresence, set this work apart. His poetic prose seamlessly weaves the mundane with the magical, creating an atmosphere both familiar and otherworldly. The novel explores themes of family, community, and humanity's connection to the environment.

While Lanny may not suit every reader's taste due to its unconventional style, those who embrace it will find a rewarding experience. Porter's ability to blend seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive and captivating narrative showcases his unique voice in contemporary fiction.